Pioglitazone

Pioglitazone is a generic tablet used to treat type-2 diabetes. It falls under the 'thiazolidinedione' category of medicines and is the only one of its kind currently approved for use in the UK. This medication helps your body make better use of the insulin it naturally produces.

Insulin is a hormone that helps reduce blood sugar levels by storing the sugar from your food in your cells, so you can use it for energy. Type-2 diabetes is a condition that leads to high blood sugar, often because the pancreas doesn't make enough insulin, or because your cells can't use the insulin effectively.

At times, type-2 diabetes can be effectively managed just by making lifestyle changes, like eating a healthy diet and exercising. However, there are occasions when you might need to take medication, such as Pioglitazone, to help keep your blood sugar levels low.

Pioglitazone helps your cells respond better to insulin. It achieves this by activating certain receptors in your cells that work with insulin. As a result, your cells can more effectively move and use glucose from your blood, which may help reduce your blood sugar levels.

Pioglitazone doesn't boost your insulin production. So, if your pancreas isn't producing much insulin, Pioglitazone might not work as well for you. In that case, you may need to take another treatment with Pioglitazone to help raise your insulin levels.

Pioglitazone comes in three strengths: 15mg, 30mg, and 45mg. Usually, you'll start with one 15mg tablet daily, and if necessary, your dose can be increased up to a maximum of 45mg once a day.

After discussing your health with us, our clinician will suggest the best dose for you.

Pioglitazone is the only 'glitazone' approved for use in the UK. As a result, any other treatment you receive will lower your blood sugar differently, as it won't work in the same way.

Metformin is usually the first choice for treating type-2 diabetes. Pioglitazone is generally prescribed if metformin isn't suitable or hasn't worked well for you.

Most diabetes treatments boost the amount of insulin your pancreas releases. However, Pioglitazone helps your cells to better respond to and use insulin.

Pioglitazone is also available under the brand name Actos. They both have the same active ingredient and come in identical doses. As a result, they will have very similar effects on your body.

Actos is the branded version of the treatment and is made by a single manufacturer, with a specific branding. On the other hand, Pioglitazone is produced by various companies, so it may look different depending on who makes it. Generic treatments like Pioglitazone are usually more affordable than the branded versions.

The amount of Pioglitazone you take will be based on your health requirements and how well you respond to the medication. Typically, you will begin with a lower dose.

After you've been taking it for a few months, your HbA1c will be checked. This test shows your average blood sugar levels over the past 2-3 months. If your clinician feels the current dose isn't effective enough, they might decide to increase it.